SR-138 Collision Kills Two and Injures Three Others

PHELAN – A Labor Day crash on the SR-138, which is becoming increasingly notorious for collisions, many fatal, took two lives.

Justin M Chivas, 21

On September 5, 2016, at around 1:30 p.m. a 21-year-old man from Pinon Hills, later identified as Justin Melvin Munson Chivas was driving his white Chevy Malibu westbound on SR-138 approaching Santa Fe Road, officials said. A 2001 Silver Mazda Tribute, which according to CHP officials was driven by a 63-year-old Tustin man, later identified as Bruce Eisenhauer was traveling eastbound on SR-138. Just east of Santa Fe Road.

For reasons which remain under investigation, the Chevy veered right striking the K-rail on the north side of the road. The impact sent the vehicle out of control and into the eastbound lane colliding with the Mazda head on.

A 2016 Silver Buick Lacrosse, driven by a 51-year-old Highland woman, was behind the Mazda and struck the back of the Mazda. The driver was taken to a local hospital with what CHP officials say were moderate, non-life-threatening injuries.

Paramedics arrived on scene and determined that the drivers of both the Mazda and Chevy were dead on the scene. Two passengers in the Mazda also were transported with minor injuries.

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